Somali Regional State President Mustafe Mohamud Omar has congratulated Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on his reelection, praising his leadership for guiding Ethiopia towards greater stability and political freedom. In a congratulatory message, Mustafe highlighted Abiy's efforts in placing Ethiopia on an "irreversible course of change". He commended Abiy's administration for progress in federalism, religious freedom, and economic development.
The Somali region, in particular, has seen significant transformation under Abiy's leadership. Mustafe noted that the region transitioned from a period of widespread human rights abuses to one of peace and freedom. Before 2018, the region was governed by Abdi Mohamoud Omar, known as Abdi Iley, during which Human Rights Watch documented numerous abuses, including torture, rape, and extrajudicial killings.
Abdi Iley resigned in August 2018 amid political turmoil and violence in Jigjiga, paving the way for Mustafe to take office as part of the subsequent political transition. Mustafe's administration has sought to distance the region from the previous security-heavy governance, focusing on infrastructure, public services, investment, and political stability.
In his congratulatory message, Mustafe also praised national programs introduced under Abiy, including the Green Legacy tree-planting campaign, urban redevelopment, and initiatives focused on agriculture, food security, and industrial development. These programs aim to reduce Ethiopia's dependence on imports and promote economic growth.
Abiy's reelection was confirmed on Monday, following the ruling Prosperity Party's victory in the June 1 general election. The party secured 438 seats in the 547-member lower house, giving Abiy a commanding parliamentary majority. Mustafe himself was reelected president of the Somali Regional State on October 1, extending his tenure that began in August 2018.
The regional parliament also returned Ibrahim Osman Farah as vice president and elected Mubashir Dubad Rage as speaker. Mustafe's administration will likely continue to work closely with Abiy's government, particularly in addressing renewed security pressures elsewhere in Ethiopia. Federal forces are currently confronting Tigrayan fighters in the north, while Ethiopia faces armed conflict and political instability in other regions.
Despite these challenges, Mustafe's praise for Abiy's leadership reflects the Somali region's appreciation for the prime minister's efforts in promoting peace and stability. As Abiy begins his new term, he will likely face continued pressure to address these security concerns and maintain momentum on economic development and reform.
Key points
- Abiy Ahmed was sworn in for a new five-year term as Prime Minister of Ethiopia on Monday.
- The Somali Regional State has transitioned from a period of widespread human rights abuses to one of peace and freedom under Abiy's leadership.
- Mustafe Mohamud Omar was reelected president of the Somali Regional State on October 1.
